From left: Chloe Ragland, Katherine Anne Thierfelder, Claire Brooks

1. Where are you from and which county program do you belong to?

I am from Jackson, Tenn. and am in the Madison County 4-H Program.

2. How did you first become involved with 4-H?

I first became involved in 4-H when I moved to Jackson. I’ve been homeschooled most of my life and we were looking for extracurricular activities I could do. That’s when we stumbled upon 4-H and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made.

3. Tell us a little bit about you and what sorts of hobbies you have outside of 4-H.

I’m a junior in high school and I enjoy hobbies such as riding and showing horses, as well as reading and writing. I enter writing contests and am part of writing clubs.

4. What leadership roles have you held in 4-H before Congress?

I was the secretary of my local 4-H Club for two years, vice president for one year and president for one year. I also have held two student leadership positions in my church youth group and team captain positions on a Mock Trial team. I am also a junior leader in my local 4-H Horse Club.

5. Why did you want to run for a 4-H Congress Officer position?

I decided to run for Congress when I went the year before. It was something I thought would help my leadership skills and boost my confidence. So, I prepared for a whole year and then I came back and ran the best campaign I could.

6. Which projects do you compete in and which is your primary focus?

I compete in both the communications and horse projects, but my main focus is the horse project.

7. If you could give a piece of advice to a younger 4-Her, what would it be?

I would say don’t be afraid to take new opportunities, no matter how scary or daunting they may seem. Always make sure you’re having fun and the people around you are having fun. If you’re working hard for something but you aren’t enjoying yourself, then you don’t gain as much as when you work hard and enjoy the journey.

8. What is your favorite part about 4-H?

My favorite part about 4-H is the people. 4-H is made up of a vast number of people with diverse personalities and interests. The best people I have met have been in 4-H. 4-H has opened my eyes to a world of possibilities and a world of new people. 4-H really does make the best better.